Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has congratulated the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr Oluwatosin Ajayi, on his commendation by the Nigerian National Committee of the International Press Institute (IPI), for upholding press freedom, describing the honour as a clear validation of professionalism and deep respect for democratic ideals.
Mr Ajayi received the recognition at the IPI’s annual conference held earlier this month in Abuja, where President Bola Tinubu also acknowledged the improving and more collaborative relationship between Nigeria’s security agencies and the media.
In a statement released on Saturday in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, Governor Abiodun said the award was especially noteworthy because it came from a highly respected Fourth Estate institution, renowned for its watchdog role in society.
According to the governor, the commendation amounts to an “unassailable verdict” on Mr Ajayi’s dedication to human rights, press freedom and the rule of law, stressing that such recognition from the media community is of exceptional significance.
Governor Abiodun noted that since assuming office, the DSS Director-General has grounded his leadership in professionalism, decency and discipline, while deliberately nurturing mutual respect between security agencies and journalists.
"The award conferred on the DSS Director-General by the Nigerian National Committee of the International Press Institute is a clear acknowledgement of his efforts in promoting constructive engagement between the media and security agencies, with the ultimate aim of building a united and resilient front against insecurity,” the governor said.
He added that the honour highlights the critical role of a free, vibrant and responsible media in a democratic society, emphasising that sustainable national development is only possible where journalists operate without fear or intimidation.
“This honour is well deserved. It serves as an inspiration to public officials across the country to uphold transparency, accountability and good governance,” Abiodun noted.
The governor further expressed confidence that the cordial relationship between the Ogun State Government and the Department of State Services would continue to deepen, while wishing Mr Ajayi greater success in his efforts to safeguard national security in line with democratic principles.